How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, however it can also affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve a person's life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members could be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The doctor may also review old school records to determine if symptoms began as an infant.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that can affect school, work as well as home life. Everyone has difficulty concentrating and staying organised at times. To be considered to have the disorder, one must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect the daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for a minimum of six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about his or her symptoms, and also regarding any medical issues or family history. They can also utilize rating scales to measure adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are often built on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and the tendency to be impulsive.
In adults, doctors may request a conversation with someone else in the family or who know the patient. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty but to gain more insight about their behavior that can't be gained from the answers to a questionnaire. They may also ask about their childhood behavior and consult old school records to determine if the symptoms started before age 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will perform an examination and tests in the lab to rule out any other health conditions, such as thyroid problems or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The provider will also review a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other conditions can be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when suggesting treatments. This is why it's essential for adults to consult their primary healthcare providers if they think they might be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD the symptoms must appear in at least two settings (such as at home, school, and work) and interfere with functioning. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and can't be caused by another disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will employ various tools to evaluate the patient, including ADHD symptom lists and standardized scales for assessing behaviour, and a detailed medical history. They may also interview friends and family members to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire whether there are any other psychiatric conditions or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to ensure there isn't any underlying reason for their symptoms, such as thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some instances an evaluator might decide to perform cognitive testing or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or addiction to drugs. People who suffer from these issues typically present differently than those who do not suffer from them. Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive symptoms, while girls show inattentive ones.
Some people with ADHD might be interested in participating in an experiment in order to test out new treatments. While this is a great method to aid in further research, it is important for participants to know that the purpose behind these studies is to gain information from the scientific community and does not necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information about clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect that you might have ADHD, find a professional who is certified to recognize the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to see if ADHD specialists are covered. You can also seek recommendations from family doctors or other health professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are an option.
A doctor will speak with the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children -- about the symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and also ask others in the person's life for details including spouses and families. Personal insight often uncovers more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
Experts will also review any documents from the past particularly old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and to be able to identify the condition, symptoms must have been present since the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).
Physical examinations are also conducted. It is a way to identify any other medical conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms, for example, seizure disorders or thyroid problems. The expert will often conduct a neurological exam which checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may be utilized. Additionally one could be asked to complete simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This will help the professional determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive or impulsive. The expert will decide on a treatment plan and make an assessment. Treatment plans usually consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping techniques and change negative thinking patterns. This therapy is usually performed by an primary care physician or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD improve by taking medication. However this isn't the only way to treat the condition. Adults, teens and children are also able to benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or any combination of the two. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and learn to manage the symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It is essential to find a medical professional or mental health professional with expertise in treating ADHD. You can request recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or perform an online search. It's best to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The doctor will ask you or your child about the symptoms and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will conduct a physical exam and check for other health problems that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over your your child's medical history and family history, school records, and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily geared towards diagnosing children, has a more difficult time diagnosing ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will interview you or your child regarding their symptoms, and may ask others who spend long periods of time with them to fill out questionnaires and checklists. They will use these to help them decide whether you or your child has inattentive ADHD, hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, combined ADHD or unspecified ADHD. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also have comorbid disorders, like anxiety or depression. This is why treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy that teaches skills such as managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation.
In addition, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is crucial too. People with ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar and less fruit and vegetables. Also, making family and social relationships a priority can lower stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives adults and children a better comprehension of their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to peers and teachers However, when a teacher realizes that it's not personal or due to inattention accommodations can be provided.
A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions geared to the individual's age, talk to family members and teachers, read medical records, and check for any comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood school records could be useful for adults.
how to get diagnosed with adhd will also check for any hearing or vision problems. They might also conduct a blood test in order to determine the presence of certain hormones, and other health conditions which can cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.